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The funeral of a murdered Newcastle University medical student takes place later today. Neil Dalton was stabbed to death, with his friend Aidan Brunger, on the island of Borneo off the coast of Malaysia. The pair were volunteering at a local hospital.

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Neil Dalton and Aidan Brunger were both nearing the end of a medical course at Newcastle University Credit: Newcastle University

An inquest is due to begin today into the deaths of two Newcastle University medical students who were killed in Malaysia. Neil Dalton and Aidan Brunger were stabbed to death in a bar while on a night out. They had been working at a hospital in Borneo. Today's hearing will be held in Derby.

Neil Dalton and Aidan Brunger were both nearing the end of a medical course at Newcastle University

The family of one of the two medical students stabbed to death in Borneo have spoken of their devastation at the "senseless" killing.

Relatives of Aidan Brunger paid tribute to a "wonderful" young man, saying the murder has "left a massive hole" in their lives.

They said they would remember him as Dr Brunger even though he was unable to complete his studies.

The 22-year-old, from Kent, was killed alongside fellow Newcastle University student Neil Dalton, from Ambergate, after a row in a bar while working at a hospital in Kuching on August 6.

Today Mr Brunger's family said in a statement: "Aidan's parents and family would like to acknowledge all the love and support that they have been shown following the untimely and senseless death of Aidan inMalaysia.

"The enormous outpouring of love towards Aidan since he died is a lasting testament to the strength of feeling that so many people had towards him.

"Aidan's family are extremely proud of him and devastated to lose such a funny, kind hearted, considerate and wonderful young man.

"These qualities and the precious memories they have of him have left a massive hole in their lives.

"He will always be remembered."

He was born in Hemel Hempstead and raised in Rainham, Kent, and excelled academically throughout his studies, the statement said, while he also had a great passion for sport and was a keen Newcastle United fan from a young age.

The family said: "Studying at university there allowed him to watch his beloved team.

"Aidan placed a great value on friendship and had a strong set of friends both in Kent and in Newcastle. Whilst at Newcastle he built an enduring and special relationship with his girlfriend Freja."

Mr Brunger had successfully completed four years of his course and was due to start on the next phase of his medical training in September.

The family went on: "When he died Aidan was working in Sarawak Hospital, Kuching, Borneo, as part of his medical degree and was looking forward to exploring South-East Asia with his friends.

"Aidan had thoroughly enjoyed his time in Borneo, and spoke often about how friendly and welcoming the Malaysian people were to him.

"In recognition of his achievements Newcastle University have awarded Aidan an Honorary MBBS degree.

"The family is so proud that, whilst he has been unable to complete his degree, he will be remembered as Dr Aidan Brunger."

Earlier this week the family of Mr Dalton, who was also 22, spoke of their disbelief and paid tribute to the "caring, thoughtful and witty young man".

Four local men have admitted the killings, according to Malaysian Police. A fifth man, aged 55, has also been arrested in connection with the incident.

A hearing into the deaths is due to be held at the Derby and South Derbyshire Coroner's Court on Monday.

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Neil Dalton and Aidan Brunger were both nearing the end of a medical course at Newcastle University

The bodies of two Newcastle University medical students who died in Malaysia are expected to be flown back to the UK later. Neil Dalton and Aidan Brunger, both 22, were stabbed to death in a bar. They were both working in a hospital in Borneo.

The parents and brother of one of the two Newcastle University medical students stabbed to death in Malaysia have spoken of their grief.

Jan and Phil Dalton said their son Neil, 22, was a "caring, thoughtful and witty" young man who would never think twice about helping others.

Neil Dalton, 22, was working in a hospital in Kuching, Malaysia

We are just a normal family and we cannot believe what has happened.

He achieved so much and made so many friends in such a short time. We are so very proud of him.

Neil was a hard worker and very academic. He kept himself fit and was very sporty; involving himself in many football and cricket teams over the years. Neil enjoyed cycling and running and was always up for a challenge."